Sustainability

NYSERDA Clean Energy Communities (CEC) Program

The Village of Warwick intends to further assess how climate change will affect the Village of Warwick and its residents and to take further steps to reduce the Village’s contributions to climate change.

The NYSERDA Clean Energy Communities (CEC) program is an initiative that helps local governments reduce energy consumption and drive clean energy use in their communities. The Climate Smart Communities (CSC) Certification program is an interagency initiative administered by the DEC that provides a comprehensive framework for local governments to lead community action to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and adapt to climate change. The two programs are complementary. Both require applicants to document completion of specific actions in order to earn a designation.

The Village of Warwick has taken steps to pursue and document actions that will apply to both the CEC and CSC programs, in the interest of furthering our environmental sustainability efforts.

11 Ways to Reduce Your Impact on the Environment… TODAY

• Use reusable shopping bags for groceries
• Bring your own mug when indulging in a coffee drink — and skip the lid and the straw.
• Bring drinking water from home in glass water bottles instead of buying bottled water
• Store foods in glass containers or Mason jars rather than plastic containers and plastic freezer bags
• Take your own leftovers container to restaurants
• Avoid disposable utensils
• Avoid processed foods (which are typically sold with plastic wrapping or plastic-lined paper boxes).
• Buy fresh produce instead, and use reusable vegetable bags brought from home rather than plastic bags
• Request no plastic wrap on your newspaper and dry cleaning
• Shop at second hand stores and consignment shops
• Opt for non-disposable razors, washable feminine hygiene products, cloth diapers, handkerchiefs instead of paper tissues and rags in lieu of paper towels (old shirts and socks can be repurposed as cleaning rags)
• Buy infant toys made of wood or (untreated) fabric rather than plastic

Why More Warwick Residents Are Choosing Heat Pumps:
Cost Savings, Comfort, and More?

September 30, 2024

If you’re interested in exploring how heat pumps can benefit your home, Sustainable Warwick is a great local resource offering expert insights. They’ve put together a helpful webinar to guide you through the options and answer any questions you may have.

Village of Warwick Progresses on New DPW Facility with Clean Energy Heating and Cooling System

October 29, 2024

The Village of Warwick announces continued progress on the new pole barn at the Department of Public Works (DPW) yard. This facility represents a significant investment to protect the Village’s valuable equipment by providing shelter that will help maintain machinery and extend its lifespan. It also includes a new office space for both the DPW and Water Department, replacing an aging on-site trailer that has served as staff workspace for many years.

As part of this project, the Village selected a cost-efficient air-source heat pump system known as a “mini-split” that offers both environmental and financial benefits. This unit lowers greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, reduces heating and cooling costs, and ensures year-round comfort. The Village received a $10,000 grant from NYSERDA through the Clean Energy Communities program, covering approximately half the cost of the system.

This project demonstrates the Village’s commitment to balancing sustainable initiatives with fiscal responsibility. By installing heat pump technology, the Village provides a real-world example of clean energy in action, and residents are welcome to reach out if they’re curious to learn more.